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The Slow Road

Norway

Europe

<p>Though I no longer live in Norway, running in Oslo and throughout the country introduced me to the extended joys of both daylight and darkness.</p>
<p>The experience continues to serve as a reminder that, yes, life is meant to be lived outdoors.</p>
<hr />
<p>Feeling inspired to experience Norway&#8217;s raw beauty for yourself? Gabriella would love to <a href="https://butterfield.com/start-planning" target="_blank" rel="noopener">talk travel</a> (and everything else) with you.</p>


<p><img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-46331 size-large" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/secondbanner1600x1000-960x600.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="600" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/secondbanner1600x1000-960x600.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/secondbanner1600x1000-250x156.jpg 250w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/secondbanner1600x1000-480x300.jpg 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/secondbanner1600x1000-768x480.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/secondbanner1600x1000.jpg 1600w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /></p>
<p>Within that experience—finding myself in a new setting, adjusting to new dynamics, without any strong relationships to lean on, I began to run. I ran around Oslo—following the forests and lakes that cradle the city centre; I ran at the ripe hour of 6 am—spikes protruding from my shoes to keep balance along quiet, cross-country paths; I ran to relieve my loneliness and also to mirror the determination that the very landscape inspired. I ran because a new place jolts you to new associations and a desire to push your boundaries a little further.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-46342 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/oslostreets720x460.jpg" alt="" width="720" height="460" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/oslostreets720x460.jpg 720w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/oslostreets720x460-470x300.jpg 470w" sizes="(max-width: 720px) 100vw, 720px" /></p>
<p>I grew in personality and discipline. Slowly marathon running became an essential part of my life.</p>
<p>Along with that, I developed my career—incrementally at first, and without realizing it. To help pay for my studies abroad I worked at a local biking company in Oslo; I travelled for many years around the country appreciating the perfect cocktail of culture, people and nature and it slowly dawned on me that this could be a career.</p>
<p>It was an idyllic place to start my career in travel because the country reinforced many principles that still guide me today. One: the experience of darkness is not a limit—embrace it! That metaphor has, and can be, applied to many other realms in my life.</p>
<p>Second: I lived in a country with a truly special relationship with its green spaces. That’s reflected in the way the outdoors is optimized for use, but it’s also in the preservation.</p>
<p>Norway tracks well for high-end eco-conscious travel and this is intentional; eco-lodges are perched in the middle of forests, near fjords and shoulder organic, farm-to-table enterprises. The high cost of travel here keeps tourism at a manageable scale—the idea is to resist compromise; to make sure the preservation of the country&#8217;s pristine landscapes is first and foremost for the people who live here.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-46344 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Countrysdie_720x460.jpg" alt="" width="720" height="460" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Countrysdie_720x460.jpg 720w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Countrysdie_720x460-470x300.jpg 470w" sizes="(max-width: 720px) 100vw, 720px" /></p>


The Masters

North America

United States

Travel Advisor and<br> 2019 Masters Guide

<p>They will also tell you the lengths to which they went to acquire a ticket to such an exclusive event, or what it was like to spend a full day separated from their phone, relying only on word of mouth and manual scoreboards for updates.</p>
<p>But only a select handful can tell you exactly what it’s like to experience the deafening “Tiger roars” at a level never-before-heard on a golf course. Or what it is like to hug and high-five strangers when Tiger birdied the 16th hole, vaulting him two strokes ahead of the pack with just two holes to play.</p>
<p>They probably can’t tell you what it is like to have a golf course full of patrons all cheering for one player to win, or what it’s like to experience absolute silence from thousands of fans as the greatest golfer of all time stands over his putt.</p>
<p>Only someone who attended the 2019 Masters can tell you about what it was like to watch the greatest moment in golf history unfold right in front of their eyes.</p>
<p>The “Tiger Effect” refers to the unique effect Tiger has on a golf course, specifically the sheer number of fans that follow him and the attention he receives (no matter how he plays) by the media.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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<p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BwQQ39fAwed/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Tiger Woods (@tigerwoods)</a> on <time style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;" datetime="2019-04-14T23:18:28+00:00">Apr 14, 2019 at 4:18pm PDT</time></p>
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<p>Of course, this isn’t a new phenomenon. Tiger has been drawing droves of rowdy “get in the hole!” fans since he first turned pro back in 1996. As Tiger continued his dominance through the late 1990s and 2000s, his crowds multiplied and his presence both on and off the course was unlike any athlete, in any sport, ever.</p>
<p>In part one of Tiger&#8217;s career (before his injury and much publicized marital problems), he was a polarizing figure. Some people loved his demeanour and how dominant he was, others felt he was unfriendly and quiet/cold with media and fans.</p>
<p>In part two of his career (let’s just go ahead and call it a comeback), we see a new Tiger. A Tiger who seems to have a new lease on life and a new appreciation for the game he thought he might never be able to play again.</p>
<p>As a result, the Tiger Effect is now one that sees just about every golf fan on the planet rooting for his success&#8230; a scary thought, I know. Witnessing the Tiger Effect in part one of Tiger&#8217;s career is one thing, witnessing it in part two on the most iconic golf course in the world? Talk about the experience of a lifetime.</p>
<p>No one knows how long Tiger’s career will last, but it is safe to say it will not last forever. Golf and sports fans alike, do yourselves a favour and find a way to see this man in the flesh.</p>
<p>Win or lose, it will be an experience like no other!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Written in history. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/themasters?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#themasters</a> <a href="https://t.co/9788AWrT0M">pic.twitter.com/9788AWrT0M</a></p>
<p>— Masters Tournament (@TheMasters) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheMasters/status/1117854589074771969?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2019</a></p></blockquote>
<p><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p>


The 2019 Masters:<br> Hearing 'The Tiger Roar' Firsthand

Portfolio

Amalfi Coast

<h3><strong>FOOTWEAR</strong></h3>
<p>The Capri sandal made waves across America after Jackie Kennedy was spotted sporting a stylish, custom-fit pair as she sauntered the island’s cobbled streets. From simple styles perfect for the beach to glamorous looks weighed down in gemstones, there are a plethora of options for every taste.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Attraction_Review-g488299-d12810304-Reviews-L_Arte_del_Sandalo_Caprese_di_Antonio_Viva-Anacapri_Island_of_Capri_Province_of_.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><b>L’Arte del Sandalo Caprese</b></a></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Antonio Viva is the master of the sandal since 1958, hand-assembling beautiful bespoke sandals from morning til night in his workshop. His magnetic personality keep us coming back for custom-made shoes, made using 100% Italian materials, in every style and colour fathomable, in as little as fifteen minutes! </span></p>
<p><a href="http://www.canfora.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-40971 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Canfora-Sandal-Store-450.jpg" alt="" width="450" height="366" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Canfora-Sandal-Store-450.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Canfora-Sandal-Store-450-369x300.jpg 369w" sizes="(max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px" />Canfora</strong></a></p>
<p>This is where Jackie O. picked up her iconic pair, giving way to the legendary shop it’s become today. Buy off the rack or make yours unique by customizing every last detail from heel height to strap size and how much (or little) you want it bedazzled with beads and rhinestones.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.safaripositano.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Safari Positano</strong></a></p>
<p>For bespoke sandals that range from braided flip-flops in every colour imaginable to versions adorned with gems or leather flowers, you’ll find what you’re looking for from Safari Positano. With over 50 years of experience under their belt, it’s their attention to detail that sets them apart; each custom-made shoe has a non-slip rubber sole and ensures not to have any metal applications come in direct contact with your foot for the utmost comfort.</p>
<h3><strong>OF LOVE AND LIMONCELLO</strong></h3>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-40973 alignleft" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/lemon-store-450-1.jpg" alt="" width="450" height="300" />Perhaps no scent is more reminiscent of the Amalfi than lemon. And we&#8217;re not talking about the run-of-the-mill grocery store lemon you squeeze in your water; rather large, juicy, fragrant and sweet lemons, accented by a single leaf, that could be savoured by the slice.</p>
<p>The origin of limoncello is one shrouded in mystery and controversy over which town is responsible for the creation of the glossy and sweet <em>digestivo</em>. The Sorrentini, Amalfitani and Capresi have all raised their hand as the spirit’s founder, and each has a story that accompanies their claim. Regardless of its roots, one thing is for certain: limoncello is the libation of choice in the Amalfi Coast.</p>
<p>Lemon zest, water, alcohol and sugar are the only ingredients necessary to concoct limoncello. While it seems simple enough, the process is meticulous and takes just under three months to complete. It’s best sipped post-dinner to cap off a hearty meal. In the Amalfi, it will often come presented in a small, chilled ceramic cup.</p>
<p>Make sure you’re getting the real thing whenever you purchase lemons, limoncello or lemon-based products by keeping an eye out for a logo that reads <em>I.G.P. </em>(Protected Geographical Indication). This mark means the lemons are certifiably from the Amalfi region and adhere to the rules of production and preservation.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.saporidipositano.com/shop/index.php" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-40972 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/amalfi-limoncello-glass-250.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="449" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/amalfi-limoncello-glass-250.jpg 300w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/amalfi-limoncello-glass-250-200x300.jpg 200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />Sapori e Profumi di Positano</strong></a></p>
<p>Permeate your home with the smell of citrus and be instantly transported back to the Amalfi. For lemon anything in Amalfi, this is the place to go, with bonbons, limoncello, perfumes, soaps, fabrics and candles and more. Their lemon-patterned tablecloths make the perfect accessory for those summer meals <em>al fresco</em>.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.profumidellacostiera.it/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Profumi della Costiera</strong></a></p>
<p>Find an emporium of certified Amalfi limoncello (marked by the IGP label as mentioned above) in bottles ranging from simple glass decanters to decorative ceramic amphoras at this boutique in Ravello. There is also a selection of other flavoured liqueurs such as <em>finocchietto</em>, a fennel-based spirit (perfect as a digestif), and Liquore di Caffè. Using only traditional recipes passed down through generations, you won’t find any preservatives or artificial colouring in their product.</p>
<h3><strong>CERAMICS</strong></h3>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-40981 alignleft" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/solimene-arranged-meal-amalfi-450-IG.jpg" alt="" width="450" height="543" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/solimene-arranged-meal-amalfi-450-IG.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/solimene-arranged-meal-amalfi-450-IG-249x300.jpg 249w" sizes="(max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px" />Positano and the seaside commune of Vietri sul Mare are regarded as some of the most critical players in the art of ceramic making. The topography of the Amalfi Coast provides all the elements required for producing perfect ceramics: a body of water, earth rich in clay and volcanic content. The surrounding spectrum of colour lends itself to the skillfully painted patterns found on the area’s stunning ceramic pieces.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.ceramichedarte.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Ceramiche d’Arte Factory</strong></a></p>
<p>Found in Ravello, this is <em>the</em> company that makes pottery typical of the region. While you’ll find many of their stores around Italy, it’s here where the magic happens. Peruse the artists’ different designs including whimsical creations for children, typical floral-and-fruit patterns and other minimal styles.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.facebook.com/Terrerosse-Sorrento-192189080822234/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Terrerosse Sorrento</strong></a></p>
<p>For whimsical sea-inspired pieces, Alessandro Ottone and Enrica Cerchia make items inspired by marine life, history and mythology. Created right in Sorrento (you might even catch an artist painting their piece while you’re there), peruse a range of items small and large from fridge magnets to kitchenware and coffee mugs you’ll reach for every day.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.ceramicasolimene.it/eng/default.asp" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong><img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-40982 size-thumbnail" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Solimene-photo-instagram-450-250x156.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="156" />Ceramica Artistica Solimene</strong></a></p>
<p>A family-run business that has been around since 1947, it’s worth making a visit to this famous shop in Vietri Sul Mare even just to see its exterior. Designed by Italian architect Paolo Soleri (who studied under American architect, Frank Lloyd Wright), the storefront is covered in stripes of orange and green ceramic and glass. Inside proves to be just as stunning, with an array of hand-painted ceramics made on site that range from vibrant fruit patterns to cobalt blue depictions of the sea.</p>


The Best Shops <br> on the Amalfi Coast

Masters

<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-40846 alignleft" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/masters-pin-300px.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="397" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/masters-pin-300px.jpg 300w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/masters-pin-300px-227x300.jpg 227w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />The 2<sup>nd</sup> hole – Pink Dogwood</strong></h2>
<p>One of the iconic par-5s at Augusta, low scores here are often an indication of the round to come. Reachable in 2, with raised mounds around the green to allow for a better vantage point for spectators, this is a lovely spot to place a chair if you are considering a move to 18 at the end of the day. The two holes are only a 5-minute walk apart (close by Augusta standards), and you can see the 7<sup>th</sup> green from here as well, depending on where you plant your chair. Many players have started a charge to the top of the leaderboard on 2—most recently, Louis Oosthuizen made an albatross here to jump to a tie for first; it was a shot that was responsible for getting him to a playoff for the green jacket.</p>
<p><strong> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ikDKSGqCRVM" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Louis Oosthuizen Albatross</a></strong> <strong>(2012)</strong></p>
<h3><strong>Honourable mentions:</strong></h3>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-40843 alignright" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/augusta-sand-trap-400.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="402" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/augusta-sand-trap-400.jpg 400w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/augusta-sand-trap-400-299x300.jpg 299w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/augusta-sand-trap-400-150x150.jpg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px" />A few other holes are worth mentioning, although they don’t beat our recommendations above…</p>
<p>The 6<sup>th</sup> hole is a nice place to plant your chair, on the slope <em>below</em> the tee, no less. As players hit over you to the elevated green, which sits at the perfect height for viewing, you can also turn your head slightly for a great look at the 16<sup>th</sup> green.</p>
<p>The 13<sup>th</sup> hole has a grandstand near the green, so it’s a great place to spend part of the afternoon, but maybe not worth planting a chair.</p>
<p>The 15<sup>th</sup> hole has grandstands near the fairway which offer great views of players going for the Par-5 green in 2, as well as the approach shots for those who lay up. However, trees partially obscure the 16<sup>th</sup> green, so this isn’t the best spot if you are trying to get a look at two holes.</p>


Insider's Guide: The Masters

Germany

<h2><b>Contemporary Art</b></h2>
<h3><a href="https://www.berlinischegalerie.de/en/home/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><b>Berlinische Galerie</b></a></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">One of the newest museums in the capital, first founded in 1975, this museum of modern art, photography and architecture focuses on art from Berlin from 1840 through today. Located in the hip neighbourhood of Kreuzberg, take a tour through multimedia installations and paintings ranging from Dada and the Eastern European avant-garde movements, along with the history of art from divided and reunified Berlin. </span></p>
<h3><a href="https://www.smb.museum/en/museums-institutions/hamburger-bahnhof/home.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><b><img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-40739 size-full" src="https://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/MAO-better-tommikoresniemi450.jpg" alt="" width="450" height="573" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/MAO-better-tommikoresniemi450.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/MAO-better-tommikoresniemi450-236x300.jpg 236w" sizes="(max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px" />Hamburger Bahnhof</b></a> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Museum of Modern Art</span></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Housed in the former train station, here’s where one of the world’s foremost collections of contemporary art can be found. From the 1960s onwards, this 13,000-square-metre space highlights Andy Warhol’s portrait of Mao (in addition to many other Warhols), along with works by Joseph Beuys, Robert Rauschenberg and Cy Twombly, not to mention Dan Flavin and Cindy Sherman, you will see a wide range of art, from photography, film, visual and other mediums represented throughout. </span></p>
<h3><a href="https://www.smb.museum/en/museums-institutions/museum-berggruen/home.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><b>Museum Berggruen</b></a></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Located in front of the palace of Schloss Charlottenburg, get your fix of modern art at this museum, based upon the collection of the art dealer and collector Heinz Berggruen, a Berlin-born gallerist of Jewish descent who fled Germany in 1936. You’ll see more than 120 works by Pablo Picasso, along with 70 Paul Klee works, along with Matisse, Giacometti, along with works by Cezanne, Georges Braque, Henri Laurens and a selection of African sculptures. </span></p>
<h3><a href="https://www.smb.museum/en/museums-institutions/neue-nationalgalerie/home.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><b>Neue Nationalgalerie (New National Gallery)</b></a></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The last major building designed by the German-American architect Mies van der Rohe (complete with sculpture garden), it is in the final stages of a redesign and preservation by David Chipperfield. The museum focuses on 20thC art from Europe and North America. Familian names like Munch, Picasso, Ferdinand Hodler, Max Beckmann, Otto Dix, Paul Klee, Max Ernst, Salvador Dali, Francis Bacon, Gerhard Richter and Andy Warhol. Until it reopens in 2019, make your way to the ‘Neue Galerie’ exhibition space at the Hamburger Bahnhof</span></p>
<h3><a href="https://www.smb.museum/en/museums-institutions/museum-fuer-fotografie/home.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><b>Museum of Photography</b></a> <span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Since opening in 2004, this comprehensive museum has an ever-rotating series of exhibitions highlighting what’s new and next in photography. On the first two floors, it shares space with the Helmut Newton Foundation, with a permanent exhibition of the acclaimed German-born fashion and landscape photographer’s work and equipment. </span></p>
<h2><strong>Great for Families</strong></h2>
<p><a href="https://www.visitberlin.de/en/museum-fur-naturkunde-museum-natural-history"><b>Museum fur Naturkunde (Museum of Natural History)</b></a></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-40737 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/nature-museum-dinosaur-450.jpg" alt="Museum fur Naturkunde (Museum of Natural History)" width="450" height="482" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/nature-museum-dinosaur-450.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/nature-museum-dinosaur-450-280x300.jpg 280w" sizes="(max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px" />Look out for Tristan Otto, a giant Tyrannosaur skeleton, along with the world’s largest dinosaur skeleton, a massive 13.27-metre-long (43.5 feet) brachiosaur. Just as fascinating, don’t miss the excellent ‘wet collection’, which features 276,000 glass jars filled with natural specimens, from crabs, fish, spiders, amphibians and mammals preserved in alcohol in over 12 kilometres (nearly 8 miles) of shelving. </span></p>
<h3><a href="https://www.visitberlin.de/en/deutsches-historisches-museum" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><b>Deutsches Historisches Museum (German Historical Museum)</b></a></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Located on the elegant avenue of Under den Linden, the baroque building recounts 2,000 years of German history, with 7,000 exhibits on display. Time travel from the early Middle Ages and learn about the Second World War up until German reunification, art juxtaposed with items from daily life and artifacts that tell the story of the country.  </span></p>
<h3><a href="https://sdtb.de/museum-of-technology/623/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><b>Deutsches Technikmuseum (German Museum of Technology)</b></a></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Topped dramatically by a US Air Force ‘Raisin Bomber’, you can’t miss this museum, dedicated to science and technology. From steam-powered locomotives and other trains to aircraft, telecommunications, municipal transport and photo and film technology, it celebrates uniquely German achievements in this field.</span></p>
<h3><strong><a href="https://www.zoo-berlin.de/en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Berlin Zoo</a></strong></h3>
<h3></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Located in Berlin’s pretty Tiergarten, the oldest zoo in Germany was first opened in 1844, with animals donated by Frederick William IV, the King of Prussia. The most-visited zoo in Europe, it spans 86.5 acres and holds about 1,380 different species, with more than 20,000 animals; one of the most species-rich zoos in the world. You will see four types of great apes, from orangutans to gorillas, bonobos and chimpanzees, along with an aquarium and aviary.</span></p>


17 Top Berlin Museums <br>to Explore

Holland

<h2><strong>Film and Photography</strong></h2>
<h3><a href="https://www.eyefilm.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>EYE Filmmuseum</strong></a></h3>
<p>You won’t be able to miss this sleek white building on the northern waterfront’s edge. Indeed, you will also find a place to get your fix of cutting-edge cinematic exhibitions, retrospectives, and edgy contemporary movies here. The most important centre of cinema in the country, it’s worth the free ferry ride alone.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-40160 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Eye-960px.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="542" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Eye-960px.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Eye-960px-480x271.jpg 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Eye-960px-768x434.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /></p>
<h3><a href="https://www.foam.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong><img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-40170 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Foam-Museum-350px.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="216" />Foam</strong></a></h3>
<p>This well-regarded photography museum highlights works from major photographers such as Diane Arbus, Anton Corbijn, Cy Twombly, Helen Levitt, and more in a renovated canal house. Various exhibitions are rotating throughout the year, along with children’s workshops and activities.</p>
<h2><strong>Great for Families</strong></h2>
<p>Here are a few picks that are great if you’re travelling with the family, with interactive exhibits and plenty of entertainment and learning for the little ones.</p>
<h3><a href="https://www.amsterdammuseum.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Amsterdam Museum</strong></a></h3>
<p>Highlighting the story of Amsterdam through art, artifacts, household objects and archaeological discoveries, the rich history of Holland’s capital can be discovered here, housed in a former orphanage and convent. There are more than 70,000 artifacts to be found, with colourful interactive displays and multimedia exhibits that bring the city to life.</p>
<h3><a href="https://www.hetscheepvaartmuseum.nl/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong><img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-40174 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/MAritime-Boat-350.jpg" alt="" width="350" height="197" />National Maritime Museum</strong></a></h3>
<p>A major part of Dutch history, the maritime exploits of the country, are unfurled here. Housed in a former naval storehouse, paintings, scale models, weapons and world maps highlight the explorers, cartographers and more, from the worlds of shipping and sailing. You’ll find a life-sized replica of the Dutch East India Company’s ship, the <em>Amsterdam</em>, moored at the dock alongside the museum, along with interactive children’s exhibits.</p>
<h3><a href="https://www.nemosciencemuseum.nl/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>NEMO Science Museum</strong></a></h3>
<p>A favourite with families, this science and technology museum will entertain the kids all day long, with all kinds of interactive and hands-on exhibits, videos, and activities. From discovering the furthest edges of the universe to an innovation gallery and a science lab where you can build, play, and learn, the museum is always changing things up to keep it fresh and new.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-40173 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/NEMO-museum-960.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="354" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/NEMO-museum-960.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/NEMO-museum-960-480x177.jpg 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/NEMO-museum-960-768x283.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /></p>
<h3><a href="https://www.tropenmuseum.nl/en" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Tropenmuseum</strong></a><strong> of World Culture</strong></h3>
<p>Within the greenery of the Oosterpark, you’ll find the grand building of the Tropenmuseum, with its beautiful light-filled hall, characterized by open balconies and a grand staircase. The museum specializes in the stories of collective humankind and universal themes, particularly from non-western cultures. An offshoot of the museum, the award-winning <a href="https://www.tropenmuseum.nl/en/about-tropenmuseum-junior" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Tropenmuseum Junior</a> was created for kids aged 6 to 13, with interactive exhibits designed to engage and educate.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-40172 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Tropenmuseum-kids-600.jpg" alt="" width="611" height="334" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Tropenmuseum-kids-600.jpg 611w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Tropenmuseum-kids-600-480x262.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 611px) 100vw, 611px" /></p>
<h2><strong>The Natural World</strong></h2>
<p>Dive into the natural world with two of these intriguing places, also great for older kids.</p>
<h3><a href="https://www.artis.nl/nl/language/visitors-information/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo</strong></a></h3>
<p>Established in 1838 and the oldest zoo in the Netherlands (not to mention in continental Europe), there are 27 historic buildings on-site to wander throughout. With an aquarium, a planetarium, an arboretum and even an art collection, there is surprisingly more here than one expects. (An odd fact: the world’s last quagga, a now-extinct subspecies of zebra, passed away at the zoo in 1883, although there are breeding programs now to recreate it).</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-40179 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/artis-gardens-732px.jpg" alt="" width="732" height="412" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/artis-gardens-732px.jpg 732w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/artis-gardens-732px-480x270.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" /></p>
<h3><strong><img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-40181 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/hortus-botanicus-300px.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="373" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/hortus-botanicus-300px.jpg 300w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/hortus-botanicus-300px-241x300.jpg 241w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /><a href="https://www.dehortus.nl/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hortus Botanicus</a></strong></h3>
<p>One of the oldest botanical gardens in the world, it was first established in 1638 as a herb garden for doctors and pharmacists of the city in the days of the plague. Step into the world of exotic plants. With more than 4,000 species from all over the world, wander through its greenhouses, marvelling at Victoria, the garden’s 150-year-old water lily who opens her blooms daily at dusk, a delightful butterfly conservatory, and a centuries-old agave plant that dates back to the Roman era.</p>
<h3><a href="https://www.micropia.nl/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Micropia</strong></a></h3>
<p>Weird and wonderful, look at the world through the tiniest lens of all at Micropia, a museum devoted entirely to microbes! It was Dutchman Antoni van Leeuwenhoek, an amateur microscope enthusiast (and draper by trade) who was the first person in the world to view bacteria. Dive into his world with some excellent interactive exhibits and a fascinating look at our everyday world, from the most diminutive perspective.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-40145 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/micropia-960px.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="548" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/micropia-960px.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/micropia-960px-480x274.jpg 480w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/micropia-960px-768x438.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /></p>


17 Best Museums <br> in Amsterdam

Lakes District

<h2><strong>Lugano, Switzerland</strong></h2>
<p>When you&#8217;re this close to the Italian border, hopping over to Switzerland just makes sense. One of the closest cities, Lugano, belongs to Switzerland but is located in Ticino, an Italian-speaking canton. When shopping in Switzerland, why not pick up a timepiece for yourself in the watch capital of the world?</p>
<p><strong>WATCHES</strong></p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-39491 size-full alignright" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/rolex-350px.jpg" alt="watch" width="350" height="231" />Watchmaking in Switzerland dates back to the late 16th c. after Huguenot refugees introduced the craft of portable timepieces to the booming city of Geneva. Under Calvin rule at the time, the citizens of Geneva were strictly banned from displaying any signs of wealth, including pieces of jewelry. The city’s goldsmiths were left in a precarious situation and needed to diversify their skills. They turned to watchmaking and went on to export their masterpieces to the Orient and American colonies.</p>
<p>The art of watchmaking began to spread across the country, evolving into crafting other timepieces like pendulum clocks and pocket watches. By the 19th c., Switzerland was considered the most important watch manufacturer in the world.</p>
<p>Near the end of the century, their success was briefly jeopardized by the Americans who had matched Swiss innovation and added to it mass production. The Swiss responded by adding additional features to their watches like calendars, stopwatch functions, and waterproof protection, swinging them back into the market.</p>
<p>Pick up a classic from the world leaders in watchmaking from one of these shops so that you can linger in the memories of your time in the Swiss Lakes with every glance of your wrist. A VAT refund (about 7.7% in Switzerland) means you can shop tax-free (just ask for the form), and you may also find a wider selection at the stores here than back at home, with the possibility of better prices in their country of manufacture.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-39481 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/lugano-tower-960px.jpg" alt="switzerland" width="960" height="640" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/lugano-tower-960px.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/lugano-tower-960px-450x300.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/lugano-tower-960px-768x512.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/lugano-tower-960px-900x600.jpg 900w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /></p>
<h3><strong><a href="http://www.bucherer.com/"><img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-39482 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/bucherer-entry-david-b-350px.jpg" alt="bucherer" width="350" height="259" />Bucherer</a></strong></h3>
<p>Established in 1888, Bucherer was Lucerne’s first watch and jewelry store. Rolex, Tissot, Girard-Perregaux and Jaeger-LeCoultre watches are just a sample of the Swiss brands on offer here, along with their line of dazzling, award-winning jewellery.</p>
<h4></h4>
<h3><strong><a href="http://www.foxtown.com/en">Foxtown Designer Outlet</a></strong></h3>
<p style="background: white;">About 30 minutes from Lugano, you may encounter a rare find at Foxtown. The outlets are worth a look for quality bargains on labels that are not often discounted back at home, including Dolce &amp; Gabbana, Dsquared, Etro, Fratelli Rossetti, Prada, Gucci, Valentino, Missoni, and other European and Italian brands.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-39490 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/lugano-treelines-960.jpg" alt="" width="960" height="614" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/lugano-treelines-960.jpg 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/lugano-treelines-960-469x300.jpg 469w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/lugano-treelines-960-768x491.jpg 768w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/lugano-treelines-960-938x600.jpg 938w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /></p>


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Georgia

<h2>3. &#8230;and in modern history</h2>
<p>While Georgia played home to mythical heroes, it has also given birth to some extremely influential, though decidedly less admirable, figures.</p>
<p>One of the most significant figures of the 20th century, Josef Stalin, was born in Georgia in 1878.</p>
<p>Stalin was born, raised and educated in Georgia before joining the Bolsheviks and eventually becoming supreme ruler of the USSR. He was born in Gori, an eastern city that served as an important military stronghold during the Middle Ages, where he grew up speaking Georgian.</p>
<p>Today the city plays host to the controversial Stalin Museum, housed in an ornate building that collects artifacts chronicling Stalin&#8217;s life. The museum is a divisive attraction, and has prompted articles with headlines like &#8220;<a href="http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-21656615" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Georgia divided over Stalin</a>.&#8221;</p>
<p>While an aging and increasingly small population of Georgians, particularly in Gori, still respect Stalin for his role in the industrialization of the Soviet Union and in defeating Nazi Germany in the Second World War, many regard him as the bloodiest dictator in history and resent the fact that Stalin, as head of the Soviet Union, invaded Georgia in 1921, shortly after it had become a parliamentary democracy.</p>
<h2>4. It’s got one of the world&#8217;s most wonderful feast traditions</h2>
<figure id="attachment_37381" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-37381" style="width: 376px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-37381 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Things-to-Know-About-Georgia-supra.jpg" alt="Things to Know About Georgia" width="376" height="466" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Things-to-Know-About-Georgia-supra.jpg 376w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Things-to-Know-About-Georgia-supra-242x300.jpg 242w" sizes="(max-width: 376px) 100vw, 376px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-37381" class="wp-caption-text">A supra depicted by artist Niko Pirosmani, 1905</figcaption></figure>
<p>An important part of social culture, Georgians take their feasts, called <em>supras</em>, very seriously.</p>
<p>Supras include a strict set of rules that apply regardless of the size or type of the feast. A toastmaster, or <em>tamada</em>, is elected by the guests and introduces each toast during the feast. According to tradition, the tamada must not only have great rhetorical skills, but also be able to consume large amounts of alcohol without showing signs of inebriation.</p>
<p>Throughout the meal, the tamada will propose a toast with a specific theme and speak, after which the guests raise their glasses but do not drink. After the tamada speaks, toasts about the chosen theme continue in a counter-clockwise fashion, with each guest who wishes to speak raising their glass, holding forth, and then downing its contents. (Guests who prefer not to speak may drink from their glass only after uttering some words to themselves that have particular meaning to them.) Once everyone has had a chance to speak to the theme, the tamada proposes a new one – and the whole process repeats again!</p>
<p>Fortunately, eating is entirely appropriate and allowable during a toast, but talking while it&#8217;s not your turn is frowned upon.</p>
<h2>5. Its most successful ruler was a woman</h2>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-37391 size-medium alignright" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Things-to-Know-About-Georgia-Tamar2-226x300.jpg" alt="" width="226" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Things-to-Know-About-Georgia-Tamar2-226x300.jpg 226w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Things-to-Know-About-Georgia-Tamar2.jpg 452w" sizes="(max-width: 226px) 100vw, 226px" />Queen Tamar, the first woman to rule over Georgia in her own right, was – and there&#8217;s really no other way to put this – a badass.</p>
<p>How do we know? Well in addition to being named &#8220;<a href="http://www.badassoftheweek.com/index.cgi?id=754345014062" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Badass of the Week</a>&#8221; back in 2014, she reigned from 1184 to 1213, presiding over a period that today is referred to as the pinnacle of the Georgian Golden Age.</p>
<p>Tamar was born in 1166 to King George III and Queen Burdukhan. According to legend, King George decided early on that his daughter, his first child, would inherit his throne.</p>
<p>But at that point Georgia had never had a female leader, so to soften the ground and ease the noblemen into the idea, George named Tamar his co-ruler in 1178, when she was just 12 years old. Tamar then became sole ruler of Georgia after George died in 1184.</p>
<p>There&#8217;s some debate as to whether George&#8217;s gambit worked; some believed that Tamar obtained the nobles&#8217; approval, while others interpret the same events as Tamar&#8217;s quashing of a rebellion. What&#8217;s undisputed is that Tamar eventually cemented her power, and wielded it effectively.</p>
<p>During this time, multiple threats of invasion from neighbouring Muslim rulers hung over Georgia, but the Georgian army, under Tamar&#8217;s rule, fended them off. And Tamar did not just defend her kingdom, but grew it, launching successful military campaigns to extend Georgia&#8217;s borders.</p>
<p>While she was racking up military victories, Tamar also oversaw a blossoming of Geogrian culture. Many works of art, including monuments and pieces of literature, were produced during her reign, including the epic poem &#8220;The Knight in Panther&#8217;s Skin,&#8221; which was dedicated to the Queen.</p>


<p><strong>Memories that will last a lifetime<br />
</strong><br />
<img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-34623 size-large" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/masters-576x960-360x600.jpg" alt="" width="360" height="600" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/masters-576x960-360x600.jpg 360w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/masters-576x960-180x300.jpg 180w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/masters-576x960.jpg 576w" sizes="(max-width: 360px) 100vw, 360px" />Walking the course is an experience itself, and one we highly recommend after placing your chair in the morning. Even the first hole, a relatively flat-looking affair on TV, is anything but flat in person.</p>
<p>We like to say that walking the entire course at Augusta National is like trekking in the Himalayas, and it sounds like an exaggeration until you get there. The elevation difference at Augusta National between the lowest point of the course at the 12th green and the highest at the first green is roughly equivalent to the height of Niagara Falls(!), and is so great that the golf club had to switch the nines shortly after the club’s inception, after they found that the lower holes on the first nine (now the second nine) were susceptible to frost for the first few hours of every day.</p>
<p><strong>18th tee at Augusta National</strong></p>
<p>Holes that you think you know from TV are difficult to comprehend in person. The 5th hole fairway is set at an incredible angle, and players find themselves hitting balls that sit at waist height, if they can even hold the fairway. The Statue of Liberty could fit in between the highest and lowest points of the 10th hole, and the 18th tee shot involves piping a drive through a 20-foot-wide corridor and up a 100-foot hill.</p>
<p>But naturally, the best memories you make involve the golf you’ve come to see. Whether it’s <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RUR_mHEl4A4">Matt Kuchar making an ace</a> on the par-3 16th hole, or watching as Jordan Spieth dunks it on the par 3 12th for the second year in a row(!), the excitement does not let up, and in my opinion, there’s no better place to be to witness it all.</p>


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Greece

<figure id="attachment_28534" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-28534" style="width: 225px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" class="size-medium wp-image-28534" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Uwe2-225x300.jpg" alt="&quot;A trip to Greece had been on our wishlist for years...&quot;" width="225" height="300" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Uwe2-225x300.jpg 225w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Uwe2-450x600.jpg 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Uwe2.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 225px) 100vw, 225px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-28534" class="wp-caption-text">&#8220;A trip to Greece had been on our wishlist for years&#8230;&#8221;</figcaption></figure>
<p>&#8220;A trip to Greece had been on our wish list for years,&#8221; Uwe says. After reviewing the <a href="http://www.butterfield.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Butterfield &amp; Robinson</a> website, he was convinced that this opportunity was worth the effort. He printed the incentive with his targets and tacked it to his wall at work. “This was different,” he notes, “Money is hardly motivating because it&#8217;s so fleeting. But a trip to Greece had been on our wish list for years, and created memories that will last a lifetime. Getting a luxurious travel experience with my loved one, with nothing to worry about, was truly special. It’s an experience no one can take away from me.”</p>
<p>For Uwe, the experience delivered beyond his expectations, providing what he called a trip of a lifetime. One of his most memorable moments was a surprise lunch on Santorini. After debating whether to have lunch at all (there were so many things they wanted to see and do), they reluctantly joined their guide.</p>
<p>A breathtaking drive to the other side of the island brought them to a tranquil port-side hamlet perched on a cliff, overlooking the ocean. “Words cannot express the incredible experience we had. We were treated to succulent fresh fish, idyllic views and unbelievable beauty. We were treated with extraordinary attention. It was truly magical.”</p>
<p>It has been a month since he returned home from Greece and the rote structure of life has returned. He recounts the details of the trip, clearly impressed with the smooth organization, punctuality and professionalism of all the members of the B&amp;R team.</p>
<p>As we end our call he delivers a big sigh, a smile radiating over the phone. “I feel like I’ve just returned to Greece” he says, the memories having flooded back. “I will never forget the white buildings, blue sky and emerald green waters,” he says. “The pictures in magazines are not fake – they are real!”</p>
<p>And for the last 50 years B&amp;R has been delivering just that – very unique, very exclusive, and very real trips of a lifetime that <a href="http://www.butterfield.com/corporate/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">reward and inspire world-class talent</a>.</p>


<span>Greece with B&R:</span><br> A Mythological Level of Motivation

Traditions

France

Provence

<h4>Kiss La Fanny</h4>
<p>Every respected “Boulodrome” has a splendid carving or picture of a woman’s bottom hanging somewhere on the wall. This is not decoration, nor is it a tribute to feminine beauty. Rather, it is a long-standing tradition in boules. Should a team lose without scoring a single point, they must kiss “La Fanny”!</p>
<figure id="attachment_23425" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-23425" style="width: 320px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" class="size-medium wp-image-23425" src="http://www.butterfield.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Fanny-320x212.jpg" alt="If you lose without scoring a single point, prepare to pucker up! " width="320" height="212" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Fanny-320x212.jpg 320w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Fanny.jpg 625w" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-23425" class="wp-caption-text">If you lose without scoring a single point, prepare to pucker up!</figcaption></figure>
<p>The tradition started in the north of Provence in a town called Les Voges. Fanny was the name of a waitress at the bar “Café de Grand-Lemps.” This kind-hearted soul promised, as a consolation prize to the non-scoring loser, a kiss on the cheek. One day the mayor of the little town happened to get skunked in a game, and he came over to Fanny expecting his prize. But Fanny, who wasn’t on such good terms with the mayor, presented her other cheek instead! The mayor, who obviously had a sense of humour, kissed both her “cheeks”—and thus a tradition was born. So, should you play boules, be sure to score at least one point! Otherwise… well, now you know the story.</p>


<span>Boules:</span><br> A Provençal Tradition

Patagonia

Latin America

<h2>Newly Discovered; Richly Rewarding</h2>
<p><img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-49426 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/sunset-patagonia.png" alt="Patagonia sunset " width="960" height="640" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/sunset-patagonia.png 960w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/sunset-patagonia-450x300.png 450w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/sunset-patagonia-900x600.png 900w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/sunset-patagonia-768x512.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>I bet you’ll also be meditating about these kinds of things when you arrive in Argentina. You&#8217;ll see valleys spread out before you that were first seen by human eyes as late as 1901. If you’ve never felt like a true explorer, for the first couple of days in Argentina, you may experience this feeling for the first time.</p>
<p>Then we move on, where more glaciers await. As you view the rugged Patagonian landscape you’re bound to feel the call of the ice. That’s why no trip here is complete without trekking on a glacier—a quintessentially Patagonian experience.</p>
<p>In northern Patagonia, in warmer climates, deep evergreen forests and more immersion await. Just when you think you’ve seen every hue of blue, you (or rather, your raft) will plunge into the cool but welcoming waters of Rio Manso for a truly azure adventure.</p>
<h2>Contemplate the Uncharted</h2>
<p>As an Argentino and resident in Patagonia for many years, I’m proud to have contributed to the design of B&amp;R&#8217;s Argentina Biking trip. I think its greatest virtue is this sense of discovery. Even today, under the controlled conditions of a well-planned trip, the sensation is there.</p>
<p>In Patagonia, you can&#8217;t help but feel like the first human being to contemplate the uncharted.</p>


In Patagonia, Adventures in Uncharted Territory 

Beaune

Burgundy

<p>I was discussing it just the other day with one of our guides: what I love best about wine is that there is a story to be told behind each bottle, whether it be about the winemaker, the <em>millésime</em>, the appellation, where you bought it, who you tasted it with, what you ate with it, where you were when you opened it… And get this, the stories get better the more bottles you open!</p>
<figure id="attachment_18957" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-18957" style="width: 605px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-18957 size-full" src="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Banner_inset_caption.jpg" alt="There are no prizes to be had in the Order of Burgundy – just fun. " width="605" height="207" srcset="https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Banner_inset_caption.jpg 605w, https://blog.butterfield.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Banner_inset_caption-320x109.jpg 320w" sizes="(max-width: 605px) 100vw, 605px" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-18957" class="wp-caption-text">There are no prizes to be had in the Order of Burgundy – just fun.</figcaption></figure>
<p>This spring, a small crowd of staff and guides decided to turn this passion into action, and the “Order of Burgundy” was born. The rules are simple.</p>
<h3>The  Order of Burgundy</h3>
<p>1. The committee gets together, but we don’t need all members to run a session. Special guests are always welcome.<br />
2. Everyone brings a bottle of wine in accordance with a chosen theme. It could be a special vintage, a special variety, a chosen appellation, etc.<br />
3. Blind tasting. Everyone takes a guess. (Sometimes two.)<br />
4. We open our “Bible,” a massive book full of maps, and look out for the parcels, for more background information.</p>
<p>There’s no prize to win – just fun. And a little bit of pride when you guess it all right on the first go (and we exclude the “luck” factor, always). Above all: we learn, we laugh, we share. What else?</p>
<p>We’re not obnoxious or trying to know everything about wine. We just enjoy its colours, its flavours, its stories, and its passionate people. OK fine, we may be wine nerds, but we’re proud to be.</p>
<p><em>Santé!</em></p>


The Order of Burgundy

Tour de France

Century Ride: "Le Tour" <br>Turns 100

Must Sees

See + Do

Augusta National

Spotlight

Trip Tales

<p>Above all, the Masters is about experiencing moments. That is the magic of it and each person in attendance experiences the tournament in its truest form. This is one of the reasons why The Masters fits so well with what we do at B&amp;R as we have always emphasized the importance of living in the moment. Looking back on the 2012 Masters I am reminded that experiencing this tournament on television will just never be the same. <img loading="lazy" class="size-medium wp-image-5184 alignleft" src="/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/Masters-2008-118-small-300x200.jpg" alt="Masters " width="300" height="200" />While the ticket to Sunday at the Masters is reason enough to join us in Augusta, at B&amp;R we think our travellers should also have the opportunity to play inspired golf. That’s why we reserve time the following day at the <a href="http://www.cuscowilla.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Cuscowilla Golf resort</a> on Lake Oconee—where we stay for the duration of the trip—to take in a round. Highly ranked and regarded as #1 &#8220;Best Course You Can Play in Georgia&#8221; by Golfweek 2011, this Ben Crenshaw/Bill Coore designed golf course offers a wonderful challenge as it winds through rolling meadows and valleys of pine.</p>


masters

Blog posts for 'masters'